We’ve been on the potty training and learning bandwagon for some time now. Earlier this summer, he showed some initial interest in potty training, and like a crazy cloth diaper addict, I rushed out and purchased all the cloth training pants (I also reached out to a few brands). I also dived right into this potty training thing with absolutely no idea what I was doing.

Six Months Later…

I still have absolutely no idea what I’m doing in regards to toddler potty training.

And yes, you read that correctly, it has taken us over SIX MONTHS to potty train our two-year-old because I gave up on potty training and attempted a casual, learning, experience around the potty.

Times Potty Training Accidents

The potty training experience has been an ebb and flow of things working and things not working. My toddler is really awesome at going to the bathroom at home, but sometimes we have accidents. Toddler Potty Training might not be perfect and in my house these are three reasons potty training accidents happen.

When Mom gets Angry at Him.If I loose my cool, then he looses his bladder. I loose my cool more often than I care to admit, but mostly its the very angry mom which results in puddles around my house. Parenting a toddler is hard, fucking hard.

When Dad forces him to use the Potty.If Dad is hounding him to go to the potty before we go to bed or leave the house, then he just backs off the potty training train, and starts making accidents. This is especially evident for us during nap. Parenting a toddler is hard, fucking hard. He’s so fiercely independent and does not want to be told what to do.

When he has to wear underwear, training pants, or pants. Seriously, I can’t seem to break this one. It’s getting better. He wont pee his training pants when we go somewhere and he knows where the toilet is. Sometimes a little accident while we are stripping down to bare bum, but at home, if I try the undies or the training pants, its’ pooping and peeing central. Figuring otu this milestone is hard, fucking hard. I’ve tried regular underwear, training pants, nothing – just pants, but sigh, nothing is sticking quite yet. Probably why its called potty learning. It will come with time.

When do accidents in your house? Tell me in the comments below because I know there are variances on normal.

I know I need to be a better parent and a more relaxed version of myself. I lose my cool way too often, and when the accidents happen, staying calm is so unbelievably hard. Most days I’m pretty sure I’m not cut out for this parenting crapy, and I definitely just want to piece out. Who knew teaching a child to use the potty would take so much time?

I could try one of those three-day courses other bloggers and moms write about, but if you know my kid, you know he doesn’t do anything you want him to do. This is evident by #2 on my list.

He’s almost fully trained, but the lack of speech gives us some serious barriers when we leave the house and go to unfamiliar places. I’m waiting patiently for more words (just kidding, it drives me nuts). When we do leave the house, I choose a diaper if its somewhere without a washroom and training pants if its somewhere with a washroom. We also use diapers if we suspect a poop.

Did you know Bummis released a new and improved version of their AIO cloth diaper? No? At the end of the November, Bummis released the Pure making a series of significant changes to their already pretty awesome all in one cloth diaper. Check out my review of the previous version here.

Disclosure: Kerri from Cozybums dropped one of these off with me to review at no cost. This post will contain affiliate links. I earn commission from these links.

What’s the deal with the Bummis Pure?

To be completely honest, I skimmed over the release of the Bummis PURE AIO cloth diaper. I already own the Bummis AIO, and my favourite thing in the world right now is prefold diapers and covers (sometimes I even use flats). So, another all in one cloth diaper from a company already making an all in one cloth diaper didn’t seem important to me. #firstmistake

But, it is important. The Bummis Pure is one of the MOST AFFORDABLE all in one cloth diapers MADE IN CANADA.

Give Bummis a chance! I know this brand isn’t as sexy as other cloth diaper brands, but these guys make diapers that last and diapers that hold up to heavy wetters and fit toddlers. And they do it in Canada.

Bummis Pure Design

It’s not a cloth diaper review without a little about of design chat. The Bummis Pure is an all in one cloth diaper. If you’re not familiar with this term I’ve been throwing around for the last 5 or so paragraphs, it means no fuss, no stuffing, no putting things together. Everything you need is contained in the diaper. It’ has an attachable insert that doesn’t remove, and doesn’t go anywhere when washing. You just lay all flat and go. Put it on your child and go. When it’s soiled, in the wash bag, and put a different diaper on the bum.

On the exterior of the diaper is a classic Bummis shape fitting from 10-38lbs. I say that because it looks near identical to the previous Bummis AIO. Double waist snaps, 2×4 rise snap and a few other adjustments. If you want me to do a more detailed break down of the differences, leave a comment, and I’ll make it happen. Maybe I’ll even go live on Facebook!

On the inside of the Bummis Pure is where the magic happens. This diaper has been completely overhauled on the interior as it now features a wicking jersey inner (in BRIGHT and BOLD colours). Further, a large bamboo cotton blend tongue is sewn to the front and can be tucked inside a pocket in the central part of the diaper. If you turn the pocket inside out, three layers of a cotton terry material are sewn to the pocket providing additional absorbency.

A full stash of Bummis PURE (24 changes) would cost you $670 Canadian. This would last until potty training, a solid 2.5 years. Disposables run around $50 CDN a month, if you’re lucky. That toals $1500 for a year. Yes, there are cheaper ways to cloth diaper, but this is easy. The Bummis Pure is an easy cloth diaper. It’s okay to spend money on easy things. You dont have to be a super mom with your pile of microfibre inserts stuffing diapers for an hour.

Just Pure & Simple – Worth Owning

There’s probably a really good reason why Bummis opted to name this diaper the Pure. I’m going to assume it is simple, perfect, flawless. This chunky all in one cloth diaper is worth trying.

Absorbency Worth Owning: This diaper is one of the most absorbent daytime AIO cloth diaper on the market. Hands down. It’s not nearly as absorbent as my older models (maybe because it has only been washed six times), but it is a top contender against others holding a solid 9-10oz. I don’t own anything more absorbentwithout going to something designed for nights.

If you think Smart Bottoms, Best Bottoms or Blueberry is absorbent, you haven’t tried a Bummis cloth diaper.

I boost this with a small booster for nights, and we are set. I can’t boost any other AIO and wake up to a dry bed. The bed is always wet. Note: she is a moderate night time wetter needing only 20 oz.

Elastics Worth Stretching: Elastics on Bummis Pure are just perfect. I’m not even sure how to explain to you their awesome powers, but they have such bounce, and stretch, and give just the right fit to ensure nothing escapes from the diaper. #BummisFTW

If you own a previous Bummis AIO, the elastics on the Pure are longer in that they start higher on the legs and cover a bigger width on the back.

Wicking Jersey Worthy of Pee & Poop: I believe wicking jersey is the way of the future for cloth diapers, and Canadian diaper manufacturers have jumped on that bandwagon. Not only is wicking jersey stay dry, but its amazing for poop clean up. Fleece is #soyesterday. Wicking Jersey does a fantastic job. I’ve only owned this diaper a couple of weeks; I know wicking jersey stands the test of time (whereas fleece tends to get pilly, gross, and not so lovely).

Pockets Worth Stuffing: My favourite kind of AIO is one with a pocket because I want options and Bummis Pure gives me these options:

Pocket for even more absorbency: Stuff a booster in there and this diaper will tackle any heavy daytime wetter.

Pocket for stay dry: Tuck that cotton tongue into the diaper and its now stay dry for even the most sensitive of babies.

Pocket for easy poop clean up: Nobody likes scraping poop off a million layers, so a pocket lets you hide all the excess for easy cleanup. I love it.

Skip the Pocket: If pockets aren’t for you, lay that tongue on top and baby/toddler can skip any stay dry feeling – this might be helpful for the potty training of the bunch. (And if you are lazy on laundry day).

Worthy until Potty Training: We all get worried diapers won’t last until potty training. I know I am because my youngest is 21 pounds and primarily on the same rise settings as my oldest. They do slim out. At 37lbs and 38″, my toddler has lots of room to grow this diaper. He fits this better than a size Large Bummis Potty Pant. Notice no toddler photos today; he’d rather die than wear a diaper these days (unless he has to poop).

I also love how easy it is to get on. This is a diaper I rarely struggle with. I did struggle the first time (as evident in this video below) because I didn’t have the snaps right and chunky thighs got all in the way, but guys, my husband always got it right (and I made him try this thing out!)

Couple Not-so-Awesome Things

I don’t hate diapers. I get frustrated with some diapers, and I can only think of one example and it’s not the Bummis Pure.

Couple of things I don’t like…

Double Rise Snaps because a triple rise snap prevents inevitable diaper bulge on a wider diaper like this. This is purely cosmetic.

Theres never a bulge after a cloth diaper blogger has meticulously inspected the diaper before snapping a photo. Rise snaps up, snaps adjusted. But give it an hour, it’ll all fall apart.

It is still a little bulky. The bulk isn’t as evident in the tush, but more so in the front of the diaper. I find the Bummis Pure holds more bulk in the crotch which can be frustrating for some parents.Newsflash: If you want absorbency that will last, it’ll be bulky. And that’s life. The “bulk” of this diaper doesn’t bother me or my children. I’ve seen fluffier microfibre bums, so this doesn’t break me on whether this is the perfect diaper or not.

Buy It?

Definitely. At only $27.95 AND made in Canada, this cloth diaper is an amazing deal for anyone looking for an easy, ABSORBENT, non-complicated, affordable all in one cloth diaper. And you can buy it at my favourite cloth diaper retailer – CozyBums Diapers. It’s not the trimmest of fitting diapers, but I will continue to use it for nights, naps, and long trips because I like not worrying about leaks. Probably even use it aroudn the house because its just that cute.

Spending the day in Jasper without a vehicle is a little different compared to other adventures to this beautiful Canadian National Park. In the past, we’ve jumped in the car and done all the typical “things to do in Jasper.” We’ve driven to the Icefields or checked out Pyramid Lake or some of the other great hikes in the area.

On this trip, we arrived by train, and without car seats, we were trapped in the inner core of Jasper. Things to do in Jasper with Kids and WITHOUT A CAR becomes a less short, and less impressive list.

Travel with Toddlers Wake Up

The thing about travelling and exploring cities with babies is it comes with a different pace and different expectations. Traveling with babies is much easier, and travelling with toddlers is much harder. We took on Rome with a baby, but Jasper with two kids, that was an entirely different game.

I used to be a connoisseur of museums and shopping, but now that world is a little different with little people in tow. We opted to slow down this trip, and returned to our hotel for a nap. In the past, we have tackled a museum with a sleeping baby or gone for a long day hike. Now, with a toddler (and a baby), we change our travel style and take on different things. It’s not bad; it’s just different. It still makes for wonderful memories.

Things to do in Jasper with Kids & Toddlers

Find a Playground. We checked out Centennial Playground, but there’s a few more in town too – if you check the maps they have a little swing icon for a playground should be. Nothing beats a happy toddler whooshing down a slide.

Centennial Park has located a short distance from the downtown core on Turret & Maligne. This was a perfect adventure for our toddler who suddenly had the biggest smile of our entire trip.

Take Advantage of a Hotel Pool. Hotel pools are the closest thing I’ll ever get to a private pool. I love the luxury of spending time with two kids in an empty pool. We spent a fair chunk of time before nap swimming and burning off energy with the kids. I’m so glad I chose a hotel with a pool.

Swimsuits are over rated – if you don’t already use swim shirts and swim diapers check out this sweet set from Bummis or the Omaiki combo we also own.

Stop in for hot chocolates and treats. Bakeries, ice cream shops and more. They all call your name, so whether you stop in at the Bear Paw, the Other Bear Paw or even Coco’s Cafe for a warm drink and a cookie, you won’t be disappointed. Nothing makes a toddler happier than a cookie.

Eat a meal, or two, or more. You’ll be surprised how much time is taken up with meal time. Most of our day was devoured just by feeding tiny children. No fear, this gives you plenty of time to try new restaurants and tackle table manners. #kidding.

Meander along at a toddler place to explore of the townsite. We spent most of our time wandering at a toddler pace. We had to stop and check out every bush, every pile of rocks, and every ice puddle. This toddler meander was enough to burn half a day. He also loved looking in all the windows in the townsite. The displays and trinkets captivated him. I dare not go in because it was a fight to leave the store without a meltdown.

Find out all the bears and trains! Jasper is home to not one but two display trains. Moreover, you’ll find more than one bear statue in and around the townsite.

Whats your favourite thing to do in Jasper with Kids?

Tell me more! I would love to know what else to do with kids (specifically little people) in the Jasper area. We will likely be back as Jasper is a quick drive from our place or a long train ride.

Every time we go to Jasper, I make sure we take a picture with this bear. I need to do a little digging and pull out a couple of old flash back bears.

Oh, and if you dont follow along on social media, you dont know we came home with Hand Foot Mouth Disease. Actually, I think we left Prince George with it and came home to a full on outbreak. It’s been a hoot.

It might be surprising to you to think my husband would willingly want to take the train recreationally. I know its surprising to me. Sometimes, the last thing you want to do in your spare time is to do the something you do for work. But, here we are a family of 4, with two young babies taking the Via Rail from Prince George to Jasper (and back again).

We’ve had this dream to take the Via Rail to Jasper for many years, even before we had kids. However, the Via only runs to Jasper three times a week and returns just as infrequently. This makes it challenging with my husbands sporadic time off and limited holidays. In November, he made his miles (maxed out on the number of miles he can work in a month) and got a few days off just in time to catch the Monday morning Via train to Jasper and make it back before the start of a new month.

I’m not sure what we were expecting taking the train to Jasper with a toddler (aged 27 months) and a baby (aged nine months), but we’ve known to do some stupid things and just test our patience in our want to get out and explore. This train ride was just that experience. Because Train Travel with Toddlers is going to be easy, said no one ever

Because of a train travel with Toddlers, isn’t just any old train ride. Parenting expectations don’t stop when you travel with young kids, and being out of the house and in public makes things just that more challenging.

Lucky for us, we choose to take the Via from Prince George to Jasper in offseason. There’s not a lot of travellers connecting on a rail in Western Canada during most of the year let alone mid-week at the end of November. On the way to Jasper, we were 4 of 6 passengers. On the way home, another couple joined us from Jasper to McBride before catching a tour bus back to Jasper. Traveling in the off season is perfect and meant we had the whole train to ourselves.

From the sounds of this, this train stretch in Northern BC isn’t frequently occupied. During busier times of the year such as Christmas, and the summer, it does spruce up, but not much. For the most part, rail travel in Canada is unreliable. An example would be, CN Rail hogging up the mainline in Prince George resulting in a three-hour delay leaving the station. We could have driven to Jasper in that time (not really, but almost). Additionally, out on the line, it’s not unusual to get held up by freight trains as passenger trains don’t hold priority. This means it can take a long time to get where you want to go.

Couple Tips.

I figured after enduring the trip, I’d share with you just a couple of tips for traveling with a toddler in tow. Train travel with toddlers is just as challenging as a road trip, and offers it’s own perspectives.

Feel free to ask any questions below.

By far the hardest part about train travel with toddlers is all the waiting around. Waiting at the station, waiting on board, waiting for other trains, waiting for your On Boards person – Guys, I was less than impressed with the first guy because well I’ve already filed a complaint with Via Rail.

Pack the entire fridge.

The food options on the Via Rail from Prince George to Jasper were sparse, and trying to get a hold of the On Board person was sometimes a little challenging. Bring snacks, enough for the duration of your trip, plus any potential chance of being delayed 2-5 hours. I would recommend two full meals.

I thought I packed enough snacks for the trip; however, I opened up my container of salad only to find it covered in slime and rotting. There went one meal down. I then proceeded to live of baby-friendly granola bars and coffee for the rest of our trip.

Just like a car ride, long travel times lead to the munchies. Come prepared because there’s no gas station stops onboard the Via Rail. Yes, you can get a few snacks at the store, but choices are limited.

Be Prepared to Entertain.

Babies are easy travel companions. For the most part, they are curious and fascinated with everything they’ve never seen before. Toss them your water bottle, or an empty wrapped, and you have solid 20 minutes of curiosity to keep them busy.

Toddlers, on the other hand, are no longer readily occupied by simple tricks. They insist on all the focused attention. I bought cool gel crayons from the dollar store for colouring, alongside a variety of other artsy things. That’s what he’s into right now. I bought toys, but he couldn’t care less.

Dance Party in the Bubble Car

Play Simon Says

A Little “I Spy”

Make Friends with other Passengers

Build a cardboard train to play with.

We also watched a lot of movies. We’d also watch a lot of movies in the car too, but sometimes, a cranky, tired, hungry child just needs some movie time.

Fear Naptime.

Did you forget your child would need to nap on the train? The baby was easy, I strapped her into the carrier, and my warmth against her as the train swayed, and she was out cold. Toddlers, not so easy. He usually napped 1-2-3 hours later than he normally did, and we only managed it by taking over the dining car. My husband laid him down on the benches and patiently convinced him to sleep while watching a little Lego movie to calm down and a blanket from his coat.

My Recommendation: bring a blanket or stuffed animal from home for a little extra comfort for little one. This really could have helped us. While we don’t normally do that at home, I think even the familiarity

Pack a Separate Day Bag.

Every single time we have a trip, I make this mistake and I’m not sure why I don’t learn from it. But make sure you have everything you need in one bag and everything you don’t need in a different container. Leave that second back in the baggage hold of the train, and just take what you need to your seat. Sorting thru a million separate bags is just stressful, and it creates a big freaking mess.

I get it; it’s hard with kids because you never know when they might fill their pants, destroy their clothing, or maybe need the thirteenth diaper today. But you can always get the extras and keep the important stuff with you. I didn’t need to my tripod on the train. I didn’t need all those diapers either. Just enough for the trip.

Backpacks win because now I have hands to hold babies, chase toddlers, and climb on board a train. It’s not much heavier than my toddler. My husband sported a smaller day bag. On the way home, I headed my advice and packed it full of everything we would need.

Will we take the train again?

Probably because we’re kind of like that. It’s frustrating to travel by train in Canada because of the potential for delay and that it just takes so much longer than travelling by car. But, all, in all it was relaxing. It was nice just to admire a part of the country you can’t see from the highway, and the kids enjoyed not being confined to car seats.

For even more on the matter check out this blog post on travelling in Oregon by train with toddlers.

I wonder where our next rail journey will take us?

Some other real challenges about rail travel: When you get where you’re going you don’t have car seats. Therefore you’re trapped to travelling by foot. Make sure you book accessible accommodation or have provisions available.

It’s about time I told you about Bummis Prefold cloth diapers. These gorgeous rectangles of cotton are the very first cloth diapers I bought. They are also my go-to everyday choice for absorbency. There are a lot of options when it comes to prefold cloth diapers. When I purchased Bummi’s infant-sized Prefold cloth diapers they were the cheapest option at CozyBums Diapers.

I know earlier I talked about how much I love receiving blankets. And I still do. I use them occasionally with my toddler, but from 10-30 pounds, I exclusively use Bummis prefold diapers.

If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.

The Bummis infant-sized prefold works for my kids, so I haven’t bothered to try others (That’s sort of a lie, I own the Imagine size small, Grovia Size 1 & 3, but I prefer my Bummis infant sized). With both kids, they are plenty of absorbency for two hours. There are times in which we do max out them out but usually because they had more liquids, were in a growth spurt, or we pushed it to 3-4 hours.

Typically I fold them into thirds and stuff them into a pocket, but more often I lay them on top of a diaper and right to babies skin. Super easy. If its a cover, I swap out and continue to reuse the cover until soiled and/or stinky.

Why I love them?

Durable: I use them daily for two years and they are still in great condition. Yes, they hold stains, but no big deal its poop, it’s going to stain organic cotton fibres. They haven’t shrunk up and they haven’t changed sizes drastically. They still look and feel like they did almost a year ago.

Perfect Size: From 12ish pounds to 32 pounds the Bummis Infant sized prefold is the perfect size for my kids when trifolded. Before that, they are a little big and needed to be pinned or snappis to fit better. After 32 pounds, I found they were too small within the diaper and I opted for something bigger (the GroVia Size 3 because the Baby sized Bummis is MASSIVE – I have no idea what to do with them).

Canadian & Easy To Get: There are a lot of Prefold options out there, but most of them are hard to find in Canada. Bummi’s is easy because my local retailer sells it and so do many small baby boutiques. It’s also super affordable option coming in at at under $3 a prefold diaper.

Absorbency: These work just right for us lasting a solid two hours and giving me zero troubles. I never boost them, I just use them and change them when needed.

Isn’t that diaper gorgeous? It’s my current obsession. I would build a stash of Omaiki Cabrio if I didn’t want to try them all.

Looking for a Prefold Cloth Diaper Recommendation?

Then this is what I’m going to tell you to get. The Bummi’s refold in an infant size is the most versatile, absorbent, and affordable absorbency option (in my opinion). This is what I put in my diapers 90% of the time, and I would wholeheartedly do it again. I built my stash with these, and they are petty much the only thing I still own.

Those are just two relatively simple and straightforwardperceptions that just didn’t pan out for me.

Earlier tonight I shared my 9 months in and 9 months out photos. Every time I flicked back to Instagram, I grew increasingly self-conscious because damn girl, I had two babies I don’t look like a supermodel with chub like that.

My postpartum body isn’t unlike my prepartum body.

I’ve always been kind of chunky and curvy all over. Right before I got pregnant with my first, I had finally joined Onderland for the first time since being a preteen. It was kind of a big deal. There was kind of a big celebration because seriously, I had never been under 200 pounds in my adult life.. And that was mostly because of a lot of dedication to Weight Watchers and learning to run.

Two babies later and I now weigh more today than I did when I was full term with my second baby. I just love cheeseburgers and chocolates.

Some moms, like me, don’t lose weight when breastfeeding.

I could breastfeed a dozen children and still pack on weight faster than a bear preparing for winter. Breastfeeding gives me a severe case of the munchies and I find myself shovelling food into my body faster than I can keep up. In such, I pack the pounds right back on quicker than I did 9 months ago.

What’s a mom to do?

I guess I could go to the gym, or start running. Both of those tasks take a whole lot of courage, strength and determination; something I just don’t have a lot of these days. It’s challenging enough to raise tiny kids, but to muster up anything more than the bare minimum is asking for a miracle on the easiest of tough days.

I’ve never been skinny, so the motivation to have a body I know nothing about does little for my motivation. I literally can’t even imagine what I would look like at my ideal weight because the last time I remember being less than 180lbs, I was 14. Imaging my skinny self is intangible.

Improving my physical health would do wonders for my mental health. There’s something about endorphins and moving your body that really gets your brain in a good space. However, getting there takes a whole lot of courage, strength and determination. I’ll say it again because I’m just not mentally there yet, and I need to be in a better place emotionally to cope with the simples of weight loss.

Sure, I could take the kids to the local gym but then I would need the courage to leave them with childcare providers I know nothing about. I would need the strength to walk into a room of strangers and do something I’m not comfortable doing – exercise. I would need the determination to come back and do it again. These are things I only have on good days and my bad days outnumber my good days.

Embracing Post Partum Chubby Tummy

Just embrace this postpartum body because you have forever to become whoever you want to be. Just make better choices and build yourself a village of people to help you get to the place you need to be to be the best version of yourself.

One day I’ll get there too, but for now, I’ll remind myself that belly grew two beautiful babies and that’s something worth admiring.

If you haven’t already tried these sweat pants from Costco, you need them. Out with the leggings and in with beautiful cozy cotton terry warmth and goodness. This is my mom uniform and I don’t care.

Bummis recently announced their all new Pure diaper, and it’s finally here! What’s Pure? This is the newest creation from the folks at Bummis and it’s sure to impress! Pure is Bummis’ new all-in-one cloth diaper and it’s proudly made in Canada! If you’re not familiar with Bummis, here’s what you need to know. Based in Montreal, Quebec, Bummis has been in the cloth diaper business for almost 30 years. Their goal is to reduce the ecological footprint of early childhood. They achieve this by producing their products locally, using top quality raw materials to ensure durability, and always innovating to create products that work, look great, and last. Bummis is celebrating the release of the Pure in a really BIG way! One lucky reader has the chance to WIN the entire Bummis Pure AIO line up. That’s a prize of TEN Bummis Pure diapers! One of every print and every solid colour that’s being released! Seriously, HOW AMAZING IS THIS GIVEAWAY! You will be set for life. #almost.

What makes Bummis’ Pure so special?

As an all in one diaper, the Pure comes with all the absorbency built right in

A one size diaper with four rise settings for a great fit from 10 to 35 lbs

It’s trim fitting, super absorbent, and fast drying!

Athletic Wicking Jersey (AWJ) inner lining offers a stay dry feel

AWJ is colour coordinated to complement each print/solid

Three layers of 100% cotton terry sewn into the AWJ lining for quick absorption

Attached soaker is three layers of a super absorbent 70% bamboo & 30% organic cotton blend that can be used inside the pocket or on top offering a better custom fit at each stage

The Bummis Pure AIO diaper is a wonderful addition to the great line up of Canadian made cloth diapers available from Bummis. Here’s your chance to win! One lucky reader will win the entire new line up of Bummis Pure AIO diapers. That’s ten Bummis Pure diapers, one in each of the following prints and colours: Forest Friends, Orange, Tampa, Cactus, Red, Russian Dolls, Watermelon, Lumberjack, Jade, and Cherry. That’s a total retail value of $280! This giveaway is open to US & Canadian residents, 18+, and closes on December 19th, 2017. Bummis is responsible for prize fulfillment.

Disclosure: Chances of winning are based on the number of entries received. This giveaway is in no way associated with, sponsored, administered, or endorsed by Facebook, Twitter, Google, Pinterest, or any other social media network. Open to USA & Canada, winners must be 18+, void where prohibited. Confirmed Winner will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond before a new winner will be drawn. No purchase necessary. Participating bloggers are not responsible prize fulfilment, or for lost or stolen prizes. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Event organized by The Monarch Mommy, please direct questions about this promotion to TheMonarchMommy@gmail.com.

I like to travel. If I could, I would drop everything and just explore. However, I don’t have money, and I have two kids. #maybeoneday. Our last great vacation was a trip to Prince Rupert as a family. It was fantastic. However, my husband is out of personal days and vacation time, so we’re now limited to shorter excursions like a stay-cation (a vacation in your city).

This staycation had a purpose: to escape the clutter overtaking my house. Ever since we got in our big fat heads to downsize and move into something a little smaller, I’ve been a whirlwind trying to minimize our belongings. That process results in a lot of clutter, and chaos and stress. I needed to escape. And while I’m a cloth diaper addict, I also needed a break from laundry, and cloth diapers because I’m not perfect. #itsnotallornothing. So, I packed up my Charlie Banana diapers and disposable inserts, and we hit up a local hotel for a well-deserved break.

Disclosure: Charlie Banana sent me some product to try, and I’m writing to you about it with a truthful and honest perspective. This post might contain affiliate links because that’s one way bloggers can earn money from the hard work we spend working on these posts.

I’ll admit, I love hotel beds. There’s something about the fluffy white duvet and the abundance of pillows that makes me giddy with excitement. Having stayed in my fair share of okay-hotels, this was a top priority for me and why I choose this Prince George hotel.

Diapering on Vacation

I might be escaping the chaos at home, but I’m still stuck with two kids in diapers. My youngest is for sure in diapers, but my oldest is potty trained when naked (you know that struggle?). So, I packed up Charlie Banana disposable inserts, just the shell of the Charlie Banana Cloth Diaper, Swim Diapers, and a pair of training pants.

There is zero shame in using Charlie Banana disposable inserts (or disposable diapers) when travelling and on vacation. It’s okay to enjoy the moment and not feel stressed about hauling out 10lbs of wet diapers or trying to figure out a laundry situation. Enjoying the moment is thenumber one reasonI turn to Charlie Banana for my diapering needs.

Checking in with Charlie Banana Disposables

You can’t just pack disposable inserts, you also need to pair them with a cover. Naturally, Charlie Banana Disposable Inserts work best with the one size Charlie Banana Diaper. Their diapering system is a simple pocket made with a microfleece liner good for babies 6-35lbs.

The diaper is adjusted using adjustable elastics and buckle on the inside of the pocket. Lettering on the elastic outlines which size to adjust to your baby. This gives a perfect soft fit for baby. I never had any problems with tight elastics on the thighs or a leaky bum!

Normally, you would use one of their inserts inside the diaper, and then wash when soiled. But, on holidays, or even at home, or while running errands, using the Charlie Banana Diaper changes when using disposable inserts.

The Charlie Banana disposable insert just goes on top of the fleece and up against baby’s skin. When wet change, and let the cover dry out. It’s good to have a couple of covers on hand, and easily use just three over the course of 24 hours. If it’s poopy tuck it up in a wash bag for when you get home. If it’s going to be a while before I get home, I’ll do a little hand wash in the sink and let dry.

Poolside with the Charlie Banana Swim Diaper

A vacation isn’t a vacation without a little water action. I choose the hotel in town not only based on their pillows, but also off their water attraction. A pool PLUS slide was just what we needed to unwind and enjoy the evening.

While disposable diapers are “easiest” while travelling, a swim diaper si still convenient while on vacation. Not only is a Charlie Banana Reusable Swim Diaper convenient, but it’s sure to keep a mess better than disposable swim diaper. It’s tough elastics, and perfect fit help keep any unfortunate accidents out of the pool and let you keep enjoying some splash time.

Managing a swim diaper on vacation is simple. If a poop happens to toss it in the toilet and wrap it up for washing at home. I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty, so I would give it a good swish and swirl in the toilet and then hand wash it up in the sink before drying it.

While a poopy swim diaper is a rare scenario for me, I wouldn’t go on vacation with just one. No, you would probably need multiples. Good thing the Charlie Banana Reusable Swim Diaper is super affordable around $10 a piece. Because if you bring just one, then you will have a poop and you won’t be able to swim again.

It’s challenging taking two kids out for dinner, let alone a potty curious toddler, but when there are two adults on board the task is easier. It wasn’t perfect, and we had an accident requiring a diaper change, but that’s the learning game. Lucky for us the Charlie Banana Training Pant helps keep some of the mess contained and dignity intact.

How do you vacation with diapers and potty learning children?

I just sold the crib. #maybe. I took it down, and I put it in the garage and posted it on Facebook Marketplace. Who was I kidding? This mama was destined to cosleep (read: bedshare) with her babies. That crib, it was just holding my laundry.

Disclosure: First, DaisyPops sent me these beautiful breastfeeding shirts to promote. Second, where possible, I do use affiliate links to garnish a small income. Third, don’t be stupid, cosleep safely. Fourth, if you are adamantly opposed to cosleeping and bedsharing, cool, glad it works for your family. Check out this awesome post about self-care.

Confessions of a Cosleeper

I’m kind of terrified to write this post because cosleeping is one of those topics that brings out some very passionate people in the world. But, this blog is my space on the internet and I want to share my story.

Cosleeping works for us.

I never thought I would be a cosleeper. I mean, I excitedly bought a crib at Target on clearance at 20 weeks pregnant. That’s just where society tells us babies sleep.

Surprise. My baby hated the crib.

So, I read up on cosleeping and made it work for my family.

Surprisingly, my husband was quick to join. Despite his hesitations around cosleeping, he quickly learned the joy of a baby/toddler snuggle. For us, it makes perfect sense. Why would we want the littlest, most vulnerable of our family sleeping all alone? We don’t, so we welcome our babies in our bed and parent them closely.

I’m slowly working on transitioning my youngest into her bed. Since the time I drafted this post and then published it I decided things were getting old way fast. She still finds her way into my bed, and even without her in bed this list of Breastfeeding Must Haves still runs high on my priority list.

Probably be forever since my toddler still gets a morning snuggle with Dad when he’s home, and daily naps together. He does sleep so well when snuggled with his family. Who could blame him, I sleep best knowing my husband is close too.

Breastfeeding Must-Haves

Daisy Pops Breastfeeding Sleep Shirt: every other makeshift nursing pj top I’ve used over the past two years is subpar to the amazingness of the DaisyPops Breastfeeding shirt. Not only will it keep my shoulders warm, but the boob access is so easy and the fabric is so comfy soft. #nomorecoldshoulders but better yet no more tugging on necklines and lifting of shirts only to straggle yourself in your sleep.

Favourite PJ Pants. DaisyPops doesn’t sell matching PJ bottoms, but have no fear your favourite pair clearance rack at your local department store will do just fine. toss in a pair of socks if you sleep cold.

Nursing Bra: You probably want some sort of comfy cozy nursing bra because if like me, if the girls aren’t contained you will leak everywhere. Don’t worry I have something for that. As for a recommendation, I just buy the cheapest ones off the clearance rack at the maternity store. #noshameinmygame If you have something you love that feels like you aren’t wearing a bra drop me a comment below because I really could use a new one.

Night Light. Sometimes, I need to wake up in the middle of the night to tend to baby and the soft glow of light like is just right. I like the lights from Ikea. We have a star shape up each room. Just enough glow to give some light without the brutal awakening.

PeaPod Mat. Does your tiny child like to spit up breastmilk after a feed? Or maybe you have a killer spray? A PeaPod mat can save you from having to change the sheets in the night or in the morning.

Super Long Phone Charger Cord for easy access. You know, just in case I decide at 2:30 we need to actually wake up instead of boob in mouth and back to sleep. Or for when I escape to the bedroom for some quiet time and to put a baby to sleep. But mostly mom quiet time.

DaisyPops Breastfeeding Sleep Shirt 101

Honestly, the biggest downside is the pink shows coffee stains a little too well despite being absolutely adorable on. The black is much more forgiving in that sense. But that’s a colour preference and less a shirt material preference.

I’m an XL/XXL kind of girl. I’ll be honest, I haven’t lost the baby weight and not anywhere near that stage of my life. Unfortunately, DaisyPops Breastfeeding Sleep Shirt only comes in a size Large. I bravely ordered the Large, and it FITS!. but my postpartum tummy definitely hangs out a bit. The fit in the shoulders is great and overall comfort is right on.

Despite the belly issue, I find the shirt really comfortable to wear and use. I might have pilled up all of my other pj’s and put them to the curb for donations, and only left DaisyPops in my drawer. #truestory. #tinynorthernliving

In my dream world, the DaisyPops Breastfeeding Sleep shirt would have a long sleeve option for cold Canadian Winters in the North, and more sizes (or more tummy coverage) to fit us chunkier ladies.

Every month another baby boutique specialising in cloth diapers shuts down in North America. Month after month they struggle to compete with the internet and with the never-ending crusade of dirt cheap diapers being pushed out of manufacturing countries (and other factors, I’m sure).

Purchased from co-ops, or directly from manufacturers, these diapers cost pennies on the dollar. They allow consumers to build a cloth diaper stash of 25 for a mere $150 USD (or ~$190 CDN). Sometimes you can even buy them for less, buying in bulk and driving down the cost. This is assuming an average cost of $5 per diaper.

But, is it really worth it?

There are a lot of different reasons people choose to cloth diaper. Some choose to cloth diaper for budgetary concerns, while others opt to do it for the environment. For some, it might be the cool thing, while others choose to cloth diaper for the convenience of the matter.

But, this conversation is about money.

We could talk about inferior quality, ethical manufacturing concerns, or other issues that come up with these diapers, but that’s not for today, that’s not the main reason why I don’t recommend knock-off diapers. I don’t recommend cheap overseas diapers because they hurt small businesses don’t dont make finanical sense.

What if I told you that you could cloth diaper for about the same price by shopping local and supporting small business?

We can’t afford to keep buying cheap diapers from overseas.

We can’t afford to not support our local economies of scale because never before have we needed to help our neighbours and build our local communities than today. While this has been crucial in the past, the negligence of shopping small will impact our quality of life down the road.

It’s a cycle we are all connected to and while sending our money elsewhere does little for the greater good.

If we bought everything online directly from the manufacturer what would our communities look like?

Just stop and think. How many people do you know involved in the retail sector? If they lost their jobs tomorrow because of online shopping would your community thrive?

Cloth diapering is a little different because of the specific niche it offers. Not every community can afford to upkeep something so specific, but we can support local but supporting small businesses within our region. Just because we can’t see it, doesn’t mean we can’t support it.

There is so much more to these concepts than my humble Bachelors Degree and understanding of the world can offer. But I can take a moment to pause and think about this.

But it’s just $200.

It’s not just $200 because the decision to purchase cheap diapers isn’t the first time or the last time money is sent somewhere else because it’s “cheaper”

Because, one person might not have an impact, but a group of people does.

Just $200 by 5 people, is $1,000, keep multiplying that number and it keeps growing. I think you can do the math.

If I spend $200 at my local cloth diaper retailer that money filters back into my economy. I am not an economist by trade, and I’ve barely taken any business courses, but as an outsider looking in here’s no how it might work.

She employs at least two others, giving them a small but meagre income with a purpose in life.

She purchases from other small manufacturers and distributors, which in turn talks about jobs. Some of these brands hand produce goods here in Canada or the USA. That means more ‘local’ job opportunities.

She purchases business supplies, shipping services, insurance costs, and more from others often giving more jobs within my local community.

What if everyone in my community shopped with her for their cloth diapering needs? Would that mean she could open a brick and mortar store? That brick and mortar store could give more people access to cloth diapering…

Where would that take us?

The spiral of opportunity unfolds into so many options. How awesome would that be for my community? Maybe you have a store in your community too and the same ideas apply. We can’t afford to not shop locally if we want more in our life and in our communities.

Why are we buying cheap diapers from overseas? because it’s the only thing you can afford? Is it really? We can’t afford not to shop local. We can’t afford to not shop small businesses.

You can cloth diaper and support small businesses without spending a ton of money, and over the next couple of weeks, I’m going to talk about that. Last week, I showcased a made in the usa budget friendly cloth diaper the Elemental Joy which if used like a cover runs a mere $150 CAD. And while yes, it is difficult to cloth diaper for under $200 at CozyBums it’s not impossible to do it for under $300.

When you shop at your local retailer you get the quality of care. You get a support during your cloth diapering experience. You get a smile at the door and a note on your invoice. Shopping local brings me joy and I will continue to flaunt it from the rooftops when people ask me about cloth diaper options.

This conversation is more than just cloth diapers, it applies to so many other things in our life.

I can see a few of my readers thinking “but Bailey, your husband has a good job, you can afford to buy quality.”Totally, but I can’t afford to buy everything and do everything. Buying local menas changing your mindset. This might not be something you’re ready for. But guess what, we dont’ need everything. Redefining affordable also means redefining our wants and needs. Do I want a new winter coat this year, or do I need one?

If you can afford to spend $150 on cheap diapers from overseas, then you can afford to buy a stash of cloth diapers from a local retailer. Over the next couple of weeks, I’ve partnered with my local cloth diaper retailer to Redefine Affordable because cloth diapering isn’t expensive and you can do it on a budget. I’ve cloth diapered for $100 CANADIAN <- THATS LESS THAN A STASH OF CHEAP DIAPERS.

Why do you make the purchasing choices you make?

It’s about making small choices with the spending power you do have to keep our neighbourhoods awesome. What small choice did you make today?

Did you know Bummis released a new and improved version of their AIO cloth diaper? No? At the end of the November, Bummis released the Pure making a series of significant changes to their already pretty awesome all in one cloth diaper. Check out my review of the previous version here. Disclosure: Kerri from Cozybums dropped one of […]